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European Committee of the Regions' President Markkula congratulates Antonio Tajani on his election as European Parliament President

Press release
16/01/2017

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​On behalf of the European Committee of the Regions I warmly welcome the election of Mr Tajani as President of the European Parliament. He can count on our supportto build a strong leadership of the willing to unite the pro-European political forces.

We have a common goal: to ensure first and foremost that the European Union works with and for every citizen. This effort cannot come only from Brussels. It needs to be delivered at the local, regional, national and EU level.

This election takes place at a critical juncture in Europe's history where the EU is faced with unprecedented challenges on many fronts.

Now, more than ever, we must act with openness and honesty. We must assume our political responsibility at all levels if we are to rebuild citizens' trust in the European project.

President Tajani's leadership will be pivotal to bring the EU and its policies closer to the wishes, expectations and needs of European citizens. The success of Europe will also rely on its local and regional decision-makers, given that they are in constant contact with the ever changing reality on the ground.

The European Parliament can continue to count on the European Committee of the Regions' full support and partnership. We have no doubt that President Tajani will be pragmatic in his approach, visionary in his thoughts and innovative in his actions.

I would also like to take this opportunity to express our warmest thanks to Martin Schulz for the excellent cooperation over the last five years and his unwavering commitment to engage with the EU's cities and regions.